Kaduna man takes daughter’s boyfriend to court over alleged misuse of late wife’s death benefit

A Kaduna resident, Ishaku Joseph, has brought his daughter’s boyfriend, Yunana Zock, before a Customary Court in Kaduna State, accusing him of unlawfully withdrawing funds intended as death benefits for Joseph’s late wife.

Prosecutor ASP Jeremiah Amfani informed the court that Zock allegedly deceived Joseph’s daughter, Emmanuella, and withdrew ₦13 million originally paid as death benefits in 2023. The money was transferred to Emmanuella’s account because she was the next of kin.

Following Joseph’s report, police investigated the claim. Emmanuella testified that the accused took her ATM card without her consent and withdrew the money.

In his defense, Zock admitted transferring ₦11.9 million to Emmanuella’s account but maintained they agreed she would give him ₦2 million to start a business. He explained that while spending time together in Abuja, they shared their ATM PINs.

Zock submitted an Opay account statement as evidence, which the court accepted. He also said he would call one witness during the defense phase.

Judge Patience Musa adjourned proceedings to September 30 to allow the defense to continue.